Sawarna Beach, Bayah

Sawarna beach is located in Sawarna Village, Bayah, Lebak District, Banten. Within 150 km of Rangkasbitung (Lebak Capital) is more complete with spectacular waves, perfect for surfing sports lovers. Not surprisingly, beaches are opened for public is becoming a new haven for surfers from Australia, Japan, and Korea. One of the favorite spots of surfers around the world for surfing are Ciantir.

Sawarna beach is one of the beaches are very beautiful and attractive with white sand. The tourists are mostly photography lovers choose to stay 2-3 days in the village at Sawarna Coast region. Understandably, so much beauty can be explored of Sawarna Coast and not enough when visiting just a few hours.

The unique of this village is the location separated by a shallow stream and wide enough. Hence, anyone who wants to go to the village must pass through a wooden bridge hanging like doing outbound. 

In addition to its beautiful beaches, while driving along the edge of Sawarna beach, there are interesting objects namely Laylay cave which inhabited by thousands of bats. In the cave can be seen clear water that flows down of the cave.

If interested in beach trekking, it never hurts to ask help of local residents or owners of the inn where you stay. Understandably, the beach is still managed by local residents. So for lodging or guiding affairs, has not facilitated well.

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Tidung Island, Thousand Islands

 

Tidung Island is one of the villages in the Thousand Islands, Jakarta. The island is divided into two part, Big Tidung Island and Small Tidung Island. The island also has a considerable population. Tidung Island region is a unique place, especially for marine tourism and diving. Coral reef ecosystems in this island has great beauty, especially when snorkeling or diving activities in the edge area. Research activities are also often done in this area.

Big Tidung Island and Small Tidung Island are connected by a long bridge is located in the Thousand Islands south western part, with the distance of approximately 3 hours drive from Muara Angke with public ships.

Tidung island which is estimated only 200 meters wide but about 5 km long, surrounded by shallow beach with white graded because overgrown with corals that appear invisible to the eye and filled with beautiful marine fish. This beach is not big wavy because clusters of corals and coral reefs that surround capable of withstanding the waves, it's safe for swimming.

In this island can be found friendly locals settlement and a view stalls that provide foods and soft drinks. There are also many public facilities, such as police stations are also friendly, a school for high school students from around the island, a collection of stalls and headed into the long bridge connecting the island with the island of Big Tidung and Small Tidung without inhabitants. Health center and administrative offices are neat and tidy will also pass along the journey tracing Tidung Island.

At the beginning of this bridge, you will find a bridge high enough to go through ocean basins that rather deep, there are many local young children demonstrate diving from the bridge, quite entertaining and very inviting tourists to join with them to perform diving in blue beach without waves.

At the end of the bridge, up the coast Small Tidung Island which is a cultivation area of mangrove, looks beautiful when traced with cycling, through a path filled with weeds and deserted beaches of soft white sand, very beautiful scenery.

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Ragunan Zoo, South Jakarta

Ragunan zoo was designed as an open zoo. Consist of more than 4,000 animals and 295 species. 14 acres of the zoo was officially opened by Governor of Jakarta in 1966 with the name of Ragunan Wildlife Park. The zoo with an area of 14 acres was officially opened by Governor of Jakarta in 1966 with the name of Ragunan Wildlife Park. Later, the name was changed became Ragunan Zoo. Ragunan Zoo is the largest zoo in Southeast Asia. This zoo has a primate conservation center, thats the largest in the world, the name is Schmutzer Primate Center.

About 90 percent of the collection of animals in Ragunan zoo is Indonesia native animals. In each cage, there is information about the wildlife, thus adding visitors knowledge about type and origin of  the animals. The most complete zoo in Indonesia has been experiencing expansion. the area grow about 140 acres, with approximately 295 species of animals, following 4040 specimens.

Schmutzer Primate Center: Heaven of primate lovers

 Primate Center who was standing in the region Ragunan zoo is a gift from a Dutch-blooded woman, Puck Schmutzer. Primate Center which was inaugurated August 10, 2002 it reached 13 hectares, and recognized as the largest in the world. Primate life in Schmutzer is made ​​them like real life in the wild. The animal is allowed to live freely without a cage or called enclosure.

Some Indonesia native primate that are here like orangutans, owa (Gibbons) of Borneo, Java Gray owa - an extremely rare species -, Siamang, and several other types. Primate center also has a collection of primates from other countries such as gorillas and chimpanzees. Four Gorilla who inhabit in Schmutzer Primate Center, brought in from Howlettes and Port Lympne, England.

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Rinjani Mountain, Lombok

 

Rinjani volcano on the island of Lombok rises to 3726 m, second in height among Indonesian volcanoes only to Sumatra's Kerinci volcano. Rinjani has a steep-sided conical profile when viewed from the east, but the west side of the compound volcano is truncated by the 6 x 8.5 km, oval-shaped Segara Anak caldera. The western half of the caldera contains a 230-m-deep lake whose crescentic form results from growth of the post-caldera cone Barujari at the east end of the caldera. Historical eruptions at Rinjani dating back to 1847 have been restricted to Barujari cone and consist of moderate explosive activity and occasional lava flows that have entered Segara Anak lake. Rinjani Mountain in West Nusa Tenggara is enter into the National Park area of Rinjani Mountain. This national park is also listed in UNESCO as a geological park in Indonesia.

Rinjani Mountain is a favorite for Indonesia mountain climbers cause its beautiful scenery. Rinjani has panaroma best among the mountains in Indonesia. Each year (June-August) are frequently visited by lovers of nature ranging from local residents, students, and lovers of nature. At the peak of Rinjani Mountain you will see a very large caldera (with an area of ​​approximately 50 km2) with a lake (Segara Anak) and a small mountain (Baru Mountain) in the middle. The view at the top is very beautiful, enough to pay for your trip tired during the hike. If you have enough time, try to go down into the crater & fishing. In the lake Segara Anak there are lots of Mas fish and Oreochromis mossambicus. In addition there are also hot tubs, try soaking in a pool is of hot water which probably the highest in Indonesia. Temperatures at the top of Rinjani is very cold, could reach 4 degrees Celsius.
 

Towards the top of Rinjani Mountain can be reached from two places, namely Senaru door with a height of 600 M above sea level and the door Sembalun (Sembalun Lawang) with a height of 1150 M above sea level. Doors Sembalun more chosen because it is closer to the top so they can save energy.

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Five Indonesia Unique Culture

• Ceremony Tabuik (West Sumatra)

Many activities performed the customary rites and western Sumatran society in the which is the tradition handed down by Their Ancestors.

Derived from the Arabic "ark" which means parading, Tabuik ceremony is a tradition of community on the west coast, West Sumatra, which was held by hereditary. The ceremony was held on the day of Asura that falls on the 10th of Muharram, the Islamic calendar.

According to the story, Tabuik brought by Shi'a adherents from the middle east to Pariaman, as a memorial to the battle of Karbala. The ceremony is also a symbol and expression of a deep sense of grief and respect for Muslims in Pariaman against the Prophet Muhammad's grandson. Since excitement and uniqueness in every implementation, local government was put Tabuik ceremony in West Sumatra tourism agenda and held every year.

Two weeks before the implementation of Tabuik ceremony, residents Pariaman been busy done a variety of preparations. They make a variety of snacks, and pastries typical Tabuik. In this period, there are also people who run a special ritual, which is fasting.

Aside from being the name of the ceremony, Tabuik also pinned to the names of objects that become an important component of this ritual. Tabuik numbered two and made of bamboo and wood. The shape of a horse-bodied animals, human heads, a well-built and winged. By Muslims, this beast called Buraq and is considered a magical beast. In Tabuik back, made a milestone as high as about 15 m. Tabuik then decorated with red and other colors as well be in the wine later.

• Makepung (Balinese Buffalo Racing)

If in the area there Kerapan Madura Cattle, then Bali has Makepung. Two traditions are similar but has become a unique spectacle of a fresh and entertaining in waiting by the public. Makepung is a tradition of water buffalo races which have long runway attached to the Balinese, especially in Jembrana. This tradition originally was a game of farmers who performed at the sidelines of plowing a field at harvest. At that time, they are clashing with spurring rapid buffalo tied to a cart and is controlled by a jockey.

Fraudulent activities that were originally developed and increasingly in demand among many. Now, Makepung has become one of the most interesting cultural attractions and many watched by tourists including foreign tourists. Makepung now become an annual agenda of tourism in Bali and professionally managed. Currently makepung not only by farmers alone, but officials and many businessmen from the city to be a participant or a supporter. Especially in a big fight, Governors Cup for example, participants who attended Makepung could reach about 300 pairs or more buffalo. The atmosphere was very festive with the presence of the musicians jegog (Balinese gamelan made ​​from bamboo) to enliven the atmosphere of the race.

• Debus Attractions (Banten)

Debus martial arts pedigree came from al Madad. The growing era of martial arts is growing and growing in all societies as the art of entertainment offerings for the community. Core of the show is still very strong movement or martial arts and weapons use. Debus arts offerings are widely used and focused on one player immune to attacks with sharp objects.

Art is growing and developing since hundreds years ago, along with the development of the religion of Islam in Banten. At first this art has the function as the spread of religion. But in the Dutch colonial period and during the reign of Sultan Agung Tirtayasa, martial arts are used to evoke the spirit of the people who made ​​offerings against Dutch colonialism. Because at that time the power is not balanced, the Dutch have a very complete weapons and sophisticated. The only weapons they have none other than the heritage of martial arts Debus.

• Madura Cows  Karapan Community, East Java

Karapan cow is a custom race activities cows from Madura, East Java. In cattle karapan activity not only audiences were treated to racing cows and dexterity of the jockey, but before the start, the owners usually do the ritual procession of cows accompanied by musical instruments around the seronen racing, Madura distinctive blend of musical instruments that make this event a more festive.

The length of the path traveled cow karapan between 180 to 200 meters, which can be reached within 14 to 18 seconds. Certainly a very fast pace cow - the cow, but shrewdness jockey. Sometimes the bamboo used to tread the jockey to float in the air due to the rapid speed of the beef cow. To obtain and increase the speed rate of the cow, the base of the cows that are fitted with a belt full of sharp spikes that cracked his whip and the jockey who was also given the sharp thorns towards the rump of cows.

Of course, these cuts will make the cow run faster. Distance winners sometimes the difference is very thin, even not rarely only within 1 to 2 seconds. Bull in Madura is a very unique performances, in addition to already inherited the hereditary tradition is also preserved until now. These events serve as a tourism event in Indonesia, and not only local tourists, many foreign tourists watched this cow karapan.

• Kasada Bromo Ceremony

Bromo Kasada ceremony performed by the Tengger people who live on Mount Bromo in East Java. They perform this ritual to appoint a doctor or a shaman in every village. So that they can be removed by traditional elders, they must be able to practice and memorize spells spells. A few days before the ceremony begins Kasada bromo, they are working on offerings that will be thrown into the crater of Mount Bromo. On the night of the 14 months Kasada, people throng in huge perch with ongkek containing offerings of various kinds of agricultural produce and livestock and they took him to the temple. While waiting for a respected elder shaman came back they memorize and recite the incantation, the inauguration was held at midnight the shaman and the blessing of the people. For the people of Tengger, Shamans very important role. Because they are tasked to lead the event - rituals, marriage etc..

Before they are appointed are required to pass the exam by rote and fluent in reading spells spells. After the ceremony finished, ongkek - ongkek containing the offerings brought from the foot of Mount Bromo crater and threw up into the crater, as a symbol of the sacrifices made by their ancestors. Inside the crater there are many beggars and people who live in the interior perch. They are far distant day to come to Mount Bromo and set up residence dikawah Mount Bromo in the hope they get thrown offerings. Residents who threw the offerings a variety of fruits and livestock products, regard it as a vow or their gratitude to the god of livestock and agricultural abundance.

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Senggigi Beach, Lombok

If you ever imagine your body lying on the beach Indonesia, on the beautiful white sand, sprinkled with exotic all-natural scenery, and showered with sunlight that warms the body, it is not wrong if you took time to relax and air travel to the Senggigi Beach on the Island Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. The beach is located 12 kilometers northwest of the city of Mataram was indeed a famous tourist attraction for its beautiful beaches and naturalness.

Communities often align the beauty of this beach with famous beaches on the island of Bali, like Kuta, Legian and Sanur. In fact, the beauty of Senggigi Beach is often portrayed beyond the beaches, because the condition is much more comfortable and quiet. Perhaps this is related to the arrival of foreign tourists has not been rampant in this beach.

As the mainstay of coastal resorts of West Nusa Tenggara Province, Senggigi is still relatively natural, and kept clean. The beach is still beautiful, the crash of the waves are not too big, and beautiful underwater scenery, further confirmed that the beach that stretches about 10 kilometers is an ideal place for domestic and foreign tourists for a moment forget the daily routine and atmosphere of the hustle and bustle of the city.

Senggigi Beach is now beginning ogled by tourists, especially foreign tourists, because of the relatively virgin territory and also has extensive information about his whereabouts. With increasing interest and enthusiasm of tourists to the Senggigi Beach, the local government and companies sewasta increasingly keen to build and fix all the infrastructure, so that the tourists more interested to visit this beach.

• Feature

Visiting Senggigi in Lombok Island may need to be a travel agenda for tourists who love the beauty and freshness of nature. Just imagine, when entering the coastal area, travelers will soon swept away by soft-breeze that blows along the coast cluster in West Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara Province. Fresh atmosphere, comfortable, and beautiful as if greeting tourists at the beginning of his visit. Time has been at the beach, the eyes of the tourists will be served by the exotic charm of the beach set in waves chasing each other, which extend the white sand, and thousands of tiny animal that spreads on a bed of sand, and the landscape of Mount Agung in the opposite island (the island).

Senggigi beach does offer a unique charm. Natural atmosphere that has not been overwhelmed by foreign tourists, as a marker of difference with this beach on Bali's beaches. It certainly gives the feel of its own for the visitors. Not surprisingly, this beach is now used as a new alternative destination of the tourists who missed the reassuring atmosphere of natural silence.

There are many tourist activities that visitors can do at this beach, like swimming, splashing, diving, snorkeling, sunbathing, and playing around making sandcastles. If the afternoon sun had begun to fade, tourists can also take the time to simply stroll the beach barefoot track, sitting on the sand with mangamati blue-green ocean water, or relax at the beachside hotel outlets while waiting for sunset arrived. For visitors who want to swim or just playing in the water, it is suggested to be more careful, because at the seaside there are many sharp rocks are quite harmful to the feet.

For tourists who visit the beach of Senggigi, Batu Bolong Temple sempatkanlah observed. As I walked along the edge of Senggigi Beach, approximately half an hour, travelers will find a temple built on a reef which is located on the beach. Pretend this is by surrounding communities named Pura Batu Bolong. According to local legend, the ancient temple is often held the sacrifice of a virgin, as a dish of food for the sharks that live on the beach. Another legend says, the temple is also a place where women throw himself into the sea because of a broken heart.

Another interesting thing to do is along the Senggigi at night, especially during full moon arrives. Visitors will see lots of people / people around who take advantage of the warm sand of Senggigi to medical therapy. They bury part or all of the body to the neck for 2-3 hours, while listening to waves that broke the silence. This therapy is believed to surrounding communities can cure various diseases, such as rheumatic pegel to paralysis. If interested in this activity, visitors can join and try it.

For matters of the stomach, tourists can try delicious types of meals / dishes typical of Lombok in the restaurants are lined up neatly on the beach. The price varies from Rp 30,000 to Rp 300,000 per person (December 2008). Of course, dining fun at the seaside tinge illuminated by moonlight and the orchestra entertained the surf beach a pity if you pass away. No less interesting, tourists do not forget to taste the typical food dish that is chicken Taliwang Lombok and Plecing Kangkung. Almost every restaurant in Senggigi Beach, Lombok or in general, provides this cuisine. While eating chicken or Plecing Taliwang Kangkung, tourists are entertained by the distinctive art of Lombok, a music and dance. Even if you do not mind, visitors may also come to dance together in shades of joy and kinship.

In addition, for souvenirs, tourists also do not forget to buy pearls and woven fabric with various motifs and colors. Pearl jewelry that has been assembled into a beautiful and charming eyes are mostly found in the stalls on the beach. However, if you want to string the pearls themselves, tourists can buy a plain pearl beads. Plain pearls are usually sold in the form of a necklace that consists of many pearls. Pearls can be arranged themselves according to the desired form of jewelry.

After enjoying the natural beauty of Senggigi Beach, tourists can go on tour to major tourist attractions are not far from the beach location, among others, the three Gili (small islands): namely Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air, Beach Kerandangan, and Stone Coast Screen. The stone screen is a place sacred to the followers of Islam Wetu Telu Island Lombok (Sasak).

• Location

Senggigi Beach is situated in the northwest city of Mataram, West Lombok regency, West Nusa Tenggara Province (NTB), Indonesia.

• Access

To the area of Senggigi Beach is quite easy, because there have been ports and airports on the island of Lombok. If the opposite of the island of Bali, travelers can depart from the Port of Karang Asem use a ferry to Senggigi, with travel time about 30 minutes away. Mileage can be trimmed when using aircraft from Ngurah Rai Airport in Denpasar to Mataram Selaparang Airport (Capital NTB), which only takes about 15 minutes.

Apart from the Port of Karang Asem, tourists can also depart from the port of Padang Bay in Bali use a ferry to Sheet Harbour on the island of Lombok. On the way, travelers will be pampered with a beautiful natural scenery and also the appearance of dolphins followed the ship that chased each other. Padang Bay-Sheet trip by ferry takes about 4 hours. After arriving in Sheet Harbour, visitors can proceed to the city of Mataram. From the city of Mataram, Senggigi Beach is 11 kilometers and can be reached by taxi and other public vehicles.

In addition to sea, tourists can also headed Senggigi Beach by way air flights from major cities in Indonesia, like Jakarta, Surabaya, Bali and Yogyakarta. By using aircraft from one of the city, travelers will get to the airport Selaparang, Mataram. From the airport it can direct travelers to the area of Senggigi Beach.

• Accommodation and Other Facilities

Around Senggigi Beach there are many lodging options that can be made to suit your needs. Ranging from five-star hotels, resorts, hotels jasmine up. Some places to stay that can be used as an alternative is the Holiday Inn, the Oberoi, Sheraton Senggigi, Melati Dua Cottage, Pool Villa Club, Panorama Cottage, and others. Moreover, in coastal areas is also often found restaurants, cafes, bars, open markets, a row of souvenir stalls and souvenirs, mosque, public toilets, parking lots, and others. Indonesia Senggigi beach is a beach that deserves to be the tourist beaches.

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6 Typical Festival in Indonesia

Indonesia is often called the sleeping giant of Southeast Asia, and the epithet was was appropriate. With more than 18 thousand islands, this island chain has a remarkable diversity of what you can see or do while on vacation there.

Modernization brings a wide range of development (some say excessive development) to Jakarta, while the Bali tourism back to life after being destroyed when a bomb blast 2002. There are also mountains such as Borobudur Bromo and the mystical search for various types of attractions, as well as the 6000 inhabited islands.

Not surprisingly, Indonesia offers a wide range of festivals that are very distinctive feature of their culture, reflecting the ethnic diversity and traditions from various parts of the archipelago. You will find that diversity in Indonesia is typical of six festivals, ranging from the celebration of art, batik, dance and ceremony. If possible, you can witness one of the festival during his visit to Indonesia!

• Krakatau Festival

Krakatau Festival is an annual festival held in Lampung, held to celebrate the volcanic island of the same name, Krakatau. Krakatau Mount erupted in 1927, the eruption was then generate new small islands, called Anak Krakatau.

During the festival, visitors can enjoy variety shows like Tuping Carnival (Lampung Carnival Mask), elephant and various dances from Lampung and surrounding towns. End of series of events was a visit to the island's volcanic, is still active but was sleeping soundly. For a while!

• Bali Arts Festival

One of the largest annual celebration of art and culture in Indonesia, Bali Arts Festival is always crowded. During the entire month, various art performances, exhibitions and other cultural activities will take place in Bali, offering dance, music and beauty of their culture.

Celebrations famous attractions such as traditional dances that have been almost forgotten, the trace of a remote area in Bali, food, crafts, new creations from dance schools in Denpasar and contemporary choreography of national and international artists.

• Solo Batik Carnival

 Since time immemorial, batik tradition has always had very strong roots in Solo. The city in Central Java has made it even batik as an icon and identity, an exact image of a famous city for its beauty of kingdom. Solo Batik Carnival was held to reinforce that tradition, and to promote batik on national and international scale.

This event is a combination of ceremonies, fashion shows and carnivals, all using batik as a theme. There will also be a bazaar that offers a wide range of unique batik and souvenirs Solo.

  

• Solo International Ethnic Music  Festival

One of the latest  festival of Solo is Solo International Ethnic Music (Siem) Festival, which focuses on performances and celebration of ethnic music. This event is a unique platform for collaboration between modern and ethnic music, local artists and international.

The long list of performers including artists Minangkabau, Riau, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Papua, Kalimantan, and even foreign artists from Japan, Australia, India, New Zealand and many others.

• Gerebeg Mulud

In Java language, gerebeg mean the crowd and mulud is one of calendar month name in Java. Celebration, also known as Sekaten, to celebrate the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. The procession lasted all day and 'showing' two gamelan performances are paraded toward the grand mosque.

In the evening there will be a market in the northern city to increase the excitement of the city, a great place to try different foods as well as Java and Yogyakarta to hunt for souvenirs.

• Baliem Festival

Papua festival typically rooted in the beliefs of local tribes that the war not only conflict of power and interests, but also a symbol of fertility and prosperity. Since 20 years ago, local governments have stressed the importance of peace between the tribes who fought to prevent retaliation and prolonged loss of life. So, Baliem Valley Festival is an event held to replace the war between the tribe.

As you may have guessed, the main event is a war between tribes. Imagine more than 20 different tribes with their respective 30 to 50 people wearing traditional clothing, carrying spears, bows, arrows and machetes! There are also performances and a host of other attractions, such as local traditional games, dances, as well as local cuisine.

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Raja Ampat, West Papua

Underwater enthusiasts flock to this region because it offers the world’s best marine sights. Two days earlier, some of these travelers had been at a deafening corner of a tourist trap in Bali. Once they took their flight to the bird head of the island of Papua everything changed as they embarked on a diving tour of a lifetime. In the Raja Ampat islands, divers can explore vertical underwater walls. The thrill of drift diving is another great challenge. These are the awesome experiences you will find in Raja Ampat. 

Meanwhile, on this tour several divers were well equipped and looked advanced. The territory within the islands of the Four Kings is enormous, An experts from Conservation International, The Nature Conservancy, and National Institute of Oceanography (LON) Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) have done a rapid assessment in 2001 and 2002. The result, they noted in these waters there are more than 540 hard coral species (75% of the total species in the world), more than 1,000 species of reef fish, 700 species of molluscs, and the highest record for gonodactyloid stomatopod crustaceans. This makes 75% of the world's coral species in Raja Ampat. None of the places with the same area has a number of coral species as much as this. When divers first arrive here their excitement is palpable. It’s common to hear people praise God as they take in the remarkable scenery. Others prefer to remain in silence taking in the overwhelming sight of so many islands with crystal clear water that softly brushes over the white sandy beaches.

While the landscape may look like a dream, this is not an illusion. As you embark on your dive, the phrase  ‘Attention to detail’ takes on new meaning as pigmy seahorses swim around your fingers. Manta Rays and wobbegongs will glide right by you. Tuna fish, giant trevallies, snappers, and even barracudas are there to complete your underwater ‘meeting list’. Not to mention the friendly assistant of the dugong, and a busy colleague, the turtle.  Natural and untouched beauty is the main attraction here. With no unnecessary adages, the sky, the lush islands, the sea, and everything above and under it is genuinely saying ‘Welcome to Raja Ampat Islands; your personal Disneyland of diving sites’.

Please explore this site to find information on breathtaking diving opportunities, travel logistics, Raja Ampat’s new tourism entrance fee (which directly supports conservation and community development), and the tremendous conservation effort taking place in Raja Ampat.

 Biodiversity Features in Raja Ampat and the greater Bird’s Head Seascape (Dec 2010) :

• 1,606 species of reef fish in the Bird’s Head Seascape

• 1,397 species of reef fish in Raja Ampat

• 35 species of endemic reef fish found only in the Birds Head Seascape

• 603 species of hard coral recorded in the Bird’s Head Seascape

• 75% of all known coral species in the world

• 10 times the number of hard coral species found in the entire Caribbean

• 57 species of Mantis Shrimp in the Birds Head Seascape

• 13 species of Marine Mammals in the Bird’s Head Seascape

• 5 species of endangered sea turtles in the Bird’s Head Seascape

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Ubud, Bali

Ubud is located 35 km northeast of Bali's International Airport. It is attractive to tourists for a variety of reasons. On a relatively small island with a horde of attractions, Ubud is centrally located, There are plenty reasons why Ubud was voted in recently as the most fascinating city of Asia by Condé Nast Traveler.

The Ubud area is around two to three hundred meters above sea level and surrounded by rice fields, which makes it noticeably cooler than then other tourist destinations in Bali. Neighbouring villages are well known for unique bamboo crafts and furniture, wood- and stone carving and many other crafts.

Not surprisingly, many in the Ubud area used as a place to learn the art for international travelers. They live here and the day-to-day filled with learning interaction with local residents. 

 

Mas village, Ubud area, known as a center of wood carving producing exceptional. Almost along the road and the house you will find carvings in the form of Balinese art galleries.

Different with Mas village, Celuk village known as gold and silver craftsmen, also a favorite place to get souvenirs.

 

Ubud is famous for it's regularly nightly traditional dance performances, which are part of the traditional culture and are arranged for tourists on a regular schedule. Hindu-Balinese ceremonies take place on a nearly daily basis, especially in the European summer, which is the driest and coolest season here.

Ubud is popular in part today because it is the best place in Bali to break out of the tourist mode and get off the beaten path, although far from undiscovered. Hotels are plentiful; home stays and Indonesian guesthouses (losmen) are easily available to the foreign tourist. Many tourists simply base their entire stay in the city and travel to other destinations from Ubud.

Monkey in Ubud Forest

 Accommodations in Ubud are also somewhat more reasonably priced than in the beach towns of Bali. But atmosphere is perhaps the major attractions. In the travel or tour route, the trip from Ubud you can continue to visit Kintamani.

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Tips in Explore Komodo National Park

Before exploring Komodo National Park, tourists will get detail explanations from the ranger of Komodo National Park, as there are regulations must be adhered in exploring the region.

Here are 13 tips should be considered when exploring Komodo National Park:

• Ranger, Make sure you are always with the ranger when exploring Komodo National Park. The ranger has enough experience in dealing with the Komodo. The ranger always carries Y-branched wood stick, resembling Komodo’s tongue. It is used to banish the Komodo who try to come near tourists.

• Keep walking in group, When you do trekking, make sure you always walk in your group since the Komodo attacked its alone prey.

• Avoid sudden movements, Komodo are usually in quiet if people getting through them. However, you must avoid sudden movements in front of Komodo. Your sudden movements will make you get chased by the dragons.

• Being chased by Komodo?, Run in zigzag pattern and avoid run straight. Komodo can run about 18 km per hour in straight line; hence have trouble in winded running. In addition, you can also dodge them by finding higher ground or moving into Rumah Panggung (staged house) near you. The buildings in KNP area are designed as staged ones, since Komodo get difficult to climb stairs. However, you still need to be careful because the dragons like to shelter under the building.

• Avoid climbing up a tree, Do not climb up a tree in KNP area region because one-to-two years old Komodo are good to climb. Komodo in those ages get forced to climb a tree in purpose to avoid adult Komodo. You should remember, Komodo are cannibals, they could have the weaker ones.

• Good acting, their silence just a deception. If you encounter a lazing Komodo, you must be in careful. It is good in acting; the Komodo is on standby position and waiting for unsuspecting prey. Be careful in moving then. The Komodo is likely looked as dust or dry wood sticks when they are being asleep. You can accidentally step on the dragons.

• Avoid using perfume & producing noise, Komodo has a keen earshot and smell. Your ranger will advise you not to use too stinging perfume and avoid making noise when you do trekking, as it can lure the Komodo.

• Menstruating women, Komodo can smell blood as far as 9 – 12 miles. Women who are menstruating may still do trekking. However, you cannot do trekking in your high period. Komodo will instinctively think the blood-smell as its prey. You must tell the ranger in advance.  It is necessary so that rangers can guard you more.

• Avoid lighting a fire, Do not smoke or light a fire in the KNP area. It could flame and ruin the beauty of exotic savannah in the area. The islands of KNP are vulnerable to flame because of their dry and barren.

• Cloth, Cotton wearing that absorbs sweat and convenient to use is advisable to wear when trekking in the area. The sun is very hot and the air is too dry. Do not forget to use sun block cream and a hat when you are exploring KNP. To get comfort in trekking, mountain sandals or sneakers are likely used.

Souvenir

• Souvenirs, Bold buying souvenirs in your agenda as it can help local community economic development. You can buy Komodo-shaped wooden sculpture in various sizes, pearl necklace, kain tenun ikat (ethnic clothing) Manggarai, and other wood carvings.

• Camera, Thing must be carried is of course the camera. Do not hesitate to carry your tripod, telephoto lenses, or underwater camera because you want to take not only the Komodo pictures, but also the sightseeing, rare birds, and marine life.

• Snorkelling & Diving, Visiting Komodo Island is not complete yet without enjoying its underwater beauty as well. Komodo National Park has many spots, rich in its biodiversity and challenging, the KNP underwater beauty is absolutely a paradise for divers.

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Komodo Night in Sydney

The Wonders of Komodo landed at the Opera Point Marquee of Sydney’s Opera House, Australia, as Komodo Night was held on Friday, September 9th, 2011. The event was part of the “Komodo: the Real Wonder of the World” program, a campaign held by Friends of Komodo to promote the wonders that lie within the Komodo National Park. The event featured exhibition, video screening, testimonials, as well as exotic ethnic jazz performances.

 “We don’t need tales of Jurassic Park to see a reptile-dominated world. It’s all here (in Komodo National Park).” – BBC Life

Aimed to galvanize participation and support from the media, individuals, zoologists, naturalist, travel agents, travel writers, bloggers, airlines, non-profit organizations, Marine Biologists, travelers, backpackers, divers, and Friends of Komodo around the world, the event was highlighted by speeches from prominent names including:  Gary RM Jusuf, from the Consulate General of Indonesia in Sydney, Sapta Nirwandar,  Director General for Tourism Marketing of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and Hermawan Kertajaya, Special Ambassador for Indonesian Tourism and founder of the ‘Real Wonder of the World’ project.

Main attractions of the night were groovy tropical melodies with ethnic nuances brought flawlessly by Ivan Nestorman. The native Flores artist managed to get the 200 more audience on their feet and dance along to his unique music.  Director General Sapta Nirwandar also danced to the mystifying music of the unique artist.

Ivan kicked off his performance with a splendid collaboration with Indonesia Soulfull Jazz singer, Dira Sugandhi.  The impressive duo brought "Komodo The real Wonder of the World", "Mayfalie" and ethnical songs entitled “Ie” and “Benggong”. Ivan went on to play "Flores the Cape of Flowers", "Mogi Deo Keze Walo", "Flores Da Bila","The Girl From Ipanema" and a duet with Hans on “Bolelebo”.

Traditional Sasando from Flores

Not only did he bring along drummer, bassist, and guitarists, Ivan was also accompanied by traditional sasando and Juk musicians. Bringing a full Flores atmosphere, his performance was also accompanied by authentic Ja dancers of Flores.

Another captivating performance was brought by Indonesian Reggae legend Tony Q, who splendidly brought the beach groove to the event.

Director General  Sapta Nirwandar explained that Sydney was chosen as representation of the high enthusiasm shown by Australians towards Tourism in Indonesia. “The high enthusiasm can be seen from the rapid growth of Australian tourists to Indonesia” he added.

Bringing the world closer to all the wonders of Komodo, Komodo Night proved to be most effective in  promoting  the Komodo National Park as the real wonder of the world.

Located between the Indonesian islands of Flores and Sumbawa, the Komodo National Park comprises three islands: Komodo, Rinca and Padar Islands. The park is famous for its pre-historic Komodo Dragons, where the remaining 3,000 beasts can be found exclusively in this part of the world. Other than being the natural habitat of the Komodo, the park is also home to one of the richest marine environments in the world, with at least 1,000 fish species, hundreds species of coral, 70 types of sponge, 19 whales and dolphin species, and the gliders of the deep ocean : the Manta Rays.

After the successful staging at the Sydney Opera House, Komodo Night is headed to the United States of America. On September 22nd 2011, the Wonders of Komodo will dazzle the audience at Crystal Garden, Navy Pier, Chicago

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Kuta Beach, Badung

Kuta is a tourist place located south of Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia. Kuta is located in Badung regency. This area is a tourist destination abroad, and has become a mainstay tourist island of Bali since the early 70′s. Kuta Beach in Kuta are often referred to as a Sunset Beach as opposed to the beach in Sanur is a Sunrise Beach and the tourists mostly come to Kuta Beach to enjoy the view of the sun where they have set.

In Kuta there are many shops, restaurants, hotels and baths and drying herself. Besides the beauty of the beach, Kuta beach also offers various other types of entertainment such as bars, clubs and restaurants along the beach to Legian beach. At Kuta Beach also has a pretty good waves for surfing, especially for novice surfers. Kuta region is located very strategically situated not far from International Airport I Gusti Ngurah Rai to make it easier for the tourists who come.

Beaches with long stretches of white sand up to the airport area of Bali, I Gusti Ngurah Rai and tourist area of ​​Kerobokan or Seminyak.

In the afternoon to early evening, Kuta Beach is widely used as surfing activities, Sunbathing, and other leisure activities. In the afternoon, many people spend to play foot ball or just to enjoy the beautiful sunset of Kuta beach.

Interested to enjoy non-permanent tattoos? Here you can also get it with an affordable price

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